**Title: Israel Accuses Turkey of Hypocrisy Over Military Presence in Cyprus**
In a recent statement, Israel's Foreign Ministry has accused Turkey of hypocrisy regarding its criticisms of Israeli military operations. The accusation comes in light of Turkey's control over 36 percent of Cyprus and its military presence in various regions, including Syria and Iraq.
On Tuesday, the Israeli ministry took to social media to express its stance, questioning Turkey's credibility in condemning Israel's military actions. "Turkey has the audacity to criticise Israel. But what are the facts on the ground?" the ministry stated, emphasizing the significant number of Turkish troops stationed outside Turkey.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry highlighted that Turkey maintains military bases and outposts not only in Cyprus but also in Syria and Iraq. According to their claims, Turkey occupies 36 percent of Cyprus, 5 percent of Syria, and approximately 2,000 square kilometers of Iraq. This assertion underscores the contrast between Turkey's military footprint and Israel's own military presence in the region.
In its defense, Israel pointed out that it "temporarily controls 0.1 percent of Syrian territory," which it describes as a "security zone" aimed at protecting its citizens. This area includes the Golan Heights, a strategically significant plateau that Israel captured from Syria during the 1967 Six-Day War and effectively annexed in 1981. The United Nations considers the Golan Heights to be occupied territory and continues to support the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, which established a UN-monitored buffer zone between Israeli and Syrian forces.
The exchange of accusations between Israel and Turkey reflects the ongoing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean region, where both nations have vested interests. Turkey's military presence in Cyprus has been a point of contention since the island was divided in 1974 following a Turkish invasion prompted by a Greek-led coup. The division has led to a long-standing dispute over the status of the island, with the northern part being recognized only by Turkey as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Israel's remarks come at a time when diplomatic relations between the two countries have been strained. Turkey has been vocal in its criticism of Israeli policies, particularly regarding the Palestinian territories, while Israel has responded by highlighting Turkey's own military engagements and territorial claims.
The situation remains complex, with both nations navigating their geopolitical interests amid a backdrop of historical grievances and ongoing conflicts in the region. As the discourse continues, the focus on military presence and territorial control will likely remain a contentious issue in Israeli-Turkish relations.